SMART™ Saddles should be stored either on a smooth round surface, such as the Stubbs Saddle Mate or, ideally, on a narrow, rounded saddle pole that sits through the gullet.
Store your SMART™ saddle and any accessories in a dry place away from damp and extreme temperatures.
Always remove the saddle cloth and any pads from your SMART™ saddle and allow to air after each use. Do not store the pads under your saddle as this may cause them to compress unevenly over time, compromising performance and reducing their shelf-life.
It is important that you do not store your SMART™ saddle on metal racks or with items placed on top. To prevent marking or other damage, avoid saddle brackets that support the saddle on the soft underside panels
All SMARTTM saddles from SMART Saddles come with a fleece-lined SMART™ Deluxe Saddle Cover; the water-resistant shell and adjustable elastic trim ensure your saddle is protected from dust, dirt and scratches when not in use.
Leather is a natural material and needs to be protected from drying out and cracking. Environmental factors, such as exposure to sunlight, wind and rain can cause the leather to lose some of its natural properties. It is therefore important to take steps to maintain leather in good condition in order to optimise performance and increase its longevity.
SMART Saddles recommends using SMART™ (Sweet Fig & Almond) Leather Balsam to not only keep your SMART™ saddle soft and supple, but to protect it from the elements.
SMART™ saddle skirts and saddle flaps are made using a pre-oiled leather and will require a light top-up with leather oil occasionally to keep them supple.
If your SMART™saddle gets wet, apply conditioner straight away then allow to dry in a well aired, warm room. Once completely dry, reapply conditioner until the leather returns to a supple texture and buff the sheen back to the surface with a soft cloth.
Your SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad is made from natural
materials and, whilst it is hard wearing, some special care will keep it working
optimally.
Store with the sheepskin side up to air-dry between uses.
When dry, brush regularly to remove mud/sweat/dust/hair to avoid the need for frequent washing. Do not allow hard or flat areas to develop.
Machine wash only, use a maximum 30 degrees cycle and a specialist Sheepskin detergent to preserve the hide; maintaining its suppleness whilst conditioning & strengthening the fibres and preventing them drying out.
To dry: Lay flat, wool side up, pull into shape and air-dry.
Keep your SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad looking as good as new by brushing it out after washing and drying; this will fluff up the wool, helping to retain its airflow and cushioning properties.
When not in use, the SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad is best stored clean and dry in a sealed container to prevent damage.
It is imperative that breastgirths are not attached to the long girth straps as this can damage them. All SMART™ Jump and Multi-discipline saddles are fitted with knee D-rings fixed to the body of the saddle for the purpose of fitting the SMART X-over Breastgirth or other accessories. Knee D-rings can be retro-fitted to other SMARTTM saddle models on request.
The shearling girth liner is a natural material made from lambskin and needs to be cared for prevent damage to the hide or wool and ensure longevity of your girth.
Maintain condition by following the below steps for good practice:
Take care to dry out and remove dirt after every ride
Brush and air-dry between use
Use cool water and a damp cloth if needed
Hand wash with a mild soap only if necessary, avoid soaking to allow to dry properly
Make sure that the lambskin is completely dry before using it again
Note: the liner can be easily removed for thorough cleaning
There is always help and advice on hand - our Home Consultation Service is available for routine checks as well as help with fitting to different horses or riders. You can either contact your SMART Advisor directly or get in touch with SMART Saddles’ head office by phone: 01909 807870 or email: smart@smartsaddles.com and we will be happy to assist you.
© Copyright 2024 SMART Saddles. All Rights Reserved.